Mining Mobile Metal Ions (MMI)

It is especially well suited for deeply buried mineral deposits. MMI™ measures metal ions that travel upward from mineralization to unconsolidated surface materials such soil, till, sand and so on. These mobile metal ions are released from mineralized material and travel upward toward the surface. Using careful soil sampling strategies, sophisticated chemical ligands and ultra sensitive instrumentation, SGS is able to measure these ions. After interpretation, MMI data can indicate anomalous areas.

SGS is the sole provider of MMI technology. We have over 15 years of experience providing this technology, and as a result of this long-term commitment, we are the market leaders in ion extraction technology and geochemical exploration.

There are many benefits to using MMI technology for soil geochemistry:

Few false anomalies

Focused, sharp anomalies

Excellent repeatability

Definition of metal zones and associations

Detection of deeply buried mineralization

Low background values (low noise)

Low limits of detection

MMI technology is an innovative analytical process that uses a unique approach to the analysis of metals in soils and related materials. Target elements are extracted using weak solutions of organic and inorganic compounds rather than conventional aggressive acid or cyanide-based digests. MMI solutions contain strong ligands, which detach and hold metal ions that were loosely bound to soil particles by weak atomic forces in aqueous solution. This extraction does not dissolve the bound forms of the metal ions. Thus, the metal ions in the MMI solutions are the chemically active or ‘mobile’ component of the sample. Because these mobile, loosely bound complexes are in very low concentrations, measurement is by conventional ICP-MS and the latest evolution of this technology, ICP-MS Dynamic Reaction Cell™ (DRC II™). This allows us to report very low detection limits.

MMI technology uses proprietary extractants. MMI-M is a new, single multi-element leach that now provides an option to measure the concentration of a broad selection of mobile elements. With MMI-M, you can create your own individual multi-element packages, using any or all commodity elements, diamond host rock elements, lithological elements or pathfinder elements. SGS also offers enhanced detection limits with the MMI-ME package.

Partner with SGS and use MMI technology for exploration success and more precise drill hole targeting.

Mobile Metal Ions (MMI™) in the USA

The service in which you are interested is not currently available in the USA. However, SGS in Canada has provided the successful MMI™ technology to the exploration industry for over 15 years and can take care of your requirements. Our Toronto laboratory pioneered the MMI™ methodology around the globe and has partnered in many successful projects over the years. Originally tested in the glacial tills of Canada, its application has been proven in dozens of climates and physiographies. Contact us to find out more.